'What's the problem?' - Neymar responds after latest injury setback following Brazil World Cup call-up
(Courtesy : Getty)
The forward watched the Santos game from the stands.
Neymar has dismissed rumours that his most recent physical setback could prevent him from competing in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Santos forward was questioned about a calf problem on Tuesday night while watching his team play Deportivo Cuenca in a Copa Sudamericana match.
Neymar was present in the crowd to witness Santos defeat Deportivo Cuenca 3-0 in the Sudamericana. The local supporters were thrilled to see him in the grandstand, but the topic of discussion soon turned to his fitness as he had recently developed leg oedema during a game versus Coritiba.
Neymar reacts to a question about his calf injury
The 34-year-old was very direct when the media asked how his calf was doing before he joined the Brazil national squad. According to ESPN Brazil, Neymar responded, “It’s here, all intact,” rejecting any idea that he was presently dealing with a serious physical constraint.
The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain player was questioned further by the local media about whether the injury would affect his performance or availability for the World Cup this summer. Neymar gave the assembled reporters a succinct and scathing response, obviously undeterred by the spotlight.
“What’s the problem?” the forward snapped back when asked if the calf could be a “problem” for the World Cup.
The Brazilian national team’s medical staff is reportedly adopting a more measured approach, despite Neymar’s continued public optimism about his fitness.
Once the talismanic attacker reaches the Granja Comary training centre in Teresopolis, Carlo Ancelotti and his staff are expected to put in place a specialised training program for him.
To prevent the leg oedema from worsening amid the intense tournament preparations, the medical department is being cautious. Neymar is expected to report for duty on 27 May, to begin his customised rehabilitation and integration process. Casemiro was the first member of the squad to report for duty on Tuesday.
Which injury has Neymar suffered?
He has picked up a calf injury.
For how long will he be out?
There is no certain timeline for this injury recovery.
When will he report to the national team?
27 May
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.